This past August I was able to escape the heat of New York City and flee with my family (the #TibbittsTribe) to Europe. We made our way through Paris, Rome, and Naples, but the bulk of the trip was in stunning Capri. It was my first time on the island, even though my family was there last year (I was living in China at the time). The trip was incredible and I can’t wait to go back. The food, the views, and Jennifer Lopez (I’ll talk about that later) were all amazing. Here’s a bit of some of my favorite parts of the trip and what I’d recommend if you’ll be traveling to this must-see destination.

TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATIONS:

Getting to the island is a little bit of a journey. If you are coming from Rome, as we were, you take about an hour train to the Southern Italian city of Naples. From Naples, you board a ferry to Capri which is about another hour. You are greeted with some of the most stunning mountains, cliffs and crystal blue water you have ever seen.

The boat docks at the base of a stunning limestone mountain. There are three options to get to the main square where you will find the shops, restaurants: Bus, Chair Lift, or Taxi. If you are traveling with a group or just want a bit more privacy and ease after your journey to the island, I would recommend spending the extra money on a taxi (about €20). Since Capri is what our taxi driver described as a “Pedestrian Island,” cars, buses, and scooters can only go to the entrance of the square and you must travel further by foot.

La Minerva-

During the first few days of our trip we had the pleasure of staying at the incredible boutique hotel La Minerva. Run by three brothers who are the grandchildren of the founders, this gem is a great place for anyone who wants high-end service, a boutique feel, and jaw-dropping views. With only 19 rooms, some guests book their stay over a YEAR in advance… so definitely plan accordingly (because the #TibbittsTribe didn’t LOL). Prices for staying at this hotel will range between €230-900 per night depending on room type and time of year.

Hotel Villa Bruella-

Our next stay was at the equally beautiful Hotel Villa Brunella. Located about a 10-minute walk away from our previous hotel, Villa Brunella is high on the mountaintops of the island. Let me tell you… STUNNING VIEWS.

The design of this hotel was less modern and had a more classic Italian design, but the overall experience, service, and location were great. A definite recommendation as well. Prices for this hotel range from €180-600+.

WHAT TO DO-

Take a Private Boat-

In order to truly explore all this beautiful island has to offer requires being on the water. There are many group boat tours that visit other islands, different coves, and various attractions, but the best way to explore is on a private charter. At the cost of €500 Euros for the full day, these charters will go to quiet and private coves to swim, other smaller islands for lunch, and give an experience of Capri that you just can’t get in a group charter.

Shopping-

As you walk through the cobblestone streets you pass the storefronts of Chanel, Loro Piana, Prada, Hermes, and all the designer stores you would find walking down 5th Avenue and Rodeo Drive. What I love about these stores is how small and intimate they are. They are basically the size of a New York City apartment. You can also find great Italian boutiques nestled in between these designer stores.

The Blue Grotto-

Since my family just likes to sit on the beach and sleep on vacation, I went to Blue Grotto on my own. If you take a boat out for the day, you can tell your captain to take you, but be warned, it will take about an hour or so to get inside. UNFORTUNATELY, my family refused to wait during our private charter so that’s why I went on my own the next day. From the port where you arrive at the island, I boarded a group boat to the Grotto. Once you arrive, you have to transfer to a smaller row boat where you are taken into the lagoon. In all honesty, the experience was a bit anticlimactic for me (most likely because I hyped it up to myself so much). I’m glad I went, but I would suggest going really early in the morning to avoid the long wait time.

De Luigi-

During our 7 days on the island, we frequented a few beaches but one of our favorites (as well as Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguiz’s) was Da Luigi ai Faraglioni. This quaint and private beach club is the perfect place to relax, take a swim and enjoy the island. This is also where one of my favorite restaurants on the island is located so there is no need to travel far for food.

EXPLORE-

There are so many amazing little gems throughout the island. I would recommend taking at least one day to just explore and walk around. My favorite part of traveling is taking the time to embrace the unknown and unexpected of a new place and culture.

Capri was an incredible trip that allowed me to escape the hustle of New York and spend some quality time with the #TibbittsTribe. For a behind the scenes look at our trip (and our multiple Jennifer Lopez sightings) take a look at my “Capri” Highlight on Instagram HERE.

Have you ever been to Italy? If so let me know where in the comments below and what you thought of this post.

Europe Travel 2018: CAPRI